Drivers can polish up on their fire and road safety knowledge while they get their cars washed at fire stations around Cumbria on Saturday (8 March).
Firefighters from across the county will be swapping breathing apparatus for buckets and sponges as part of the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund's (FSNBF) car wash day.
In addition to gleaming wheels and free safety advice, motorists will be able to donate to the national charity whose beneficiaries include injured firefighters requiring therapy treatments.
Photo opportunities can be arranged at stations taking taking part in the event by contacting them directly:
•Kendal fire station - 01539-797666
•Workington fire station - 01900-609566
•Carlisle fire station - 01228-593350
•Barrow fire station - 01229-433461
•Whitehaven fire station - 01946-692151
•Penrith fire station - 07920-106-619
Several local organisations have already pledged their support to the day-long event. Motoring accessory retailers Halfords are supplying Workington firefighters with sponges and players from Whitehaven Rubgy League Club have agreed to helps crews get the soap-suds flying at Whitehaven fire station.
Commenting ahead of the event, Cumbria’s Chief fire Officer Dominic Harrison said: "This is a great opportunity for drivers to get some potentially life-saving advice while contributing towards a very worthwhile cause.
"The event will give motorists the chance to skip the weekly chore of washing the car, and use the time to find out how to make their homes safe from fire.
"There will also be the chance to sign up for free home safety visits where firefighters will come around at a later date to highlight any potential fire hazards and fit smoke detectors where required at no charge."
People can arrange to have a free home safety visit at any time by calling Cumbria fire & Rescue Service on 0800-358-4777.
ENDS
Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337
Notes
The FSNBF provides a number of invaluable services to firefighters and their families, including retirement accommodation, recuperative facilities, rehabilitation and therapy. These services provide serving and retired firefighters and their dependants with the support they need when they need it most, enabling them to get the most out of life.
The charity is expected announce a broadening of its role later this year to include support for other victims of fire.